Friday, March 16, 2018

Are we excited about green beer and eggs yet? St. Patty's Day is upon us and the pups just had to at least have on their green Leprechaun Hat in celebration!

So happy the third week is upon us. Pups can 'shuffle about' now. They keep their heads and nose close to the floor along with their bodies because this is a brand new ability. By week four, they are wanting more room for exploring and are gaining some confidence. They are not neonates (newborns) any longer and can see and hear decently.

I shared pics of their new quarters yesterday and some are actually using the litter box! I expect 'hit or miss' at this time, but continue to place them in it after eating and when I wake them up by sitting in their area and patting them. They continue to be a content group. :+)

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Between 2 1/2 and 3 weeks of age, I like to make adjustments in the pups' environment. At 3 weeks, the pups' brains are working overtime. This is when introducing new things needs to be done slowly but constantly so that it triggers learning.

The potty box is introduced (even though it may not be used much) - it is a step in the right direction. The high walled Perla Bed crate they have been in since birth has been removed so they now have a bit more space around them for their eyes to adjust to. Toys are added to bump into, sleep with and begin to explore with their mouths. All these things entice them to learn and progress. The 'dangling' baby toys produce sounds when moved. They will startle at first but then 'learn' to produce those bells and rattles by mouthing and pawing at them.

All in all, the 3 week marker is a big one and once they start to walk, it won't be long till they are running full speed ahead! :+)

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Goodness, we have a pile of snow! We were so close to being 'snowless' just last week! Now look at us! Thankfully, pups are too small yet to play outdoors, but I hope it will be gone by the time they can!

I had to resort to just clearing a path because there is no where to put snow.

Monday, March 12, 2018

Today ended the Early Neurological Stimulation segment on our pups. I am always happy when it is the last day - not because it is complicated or time consuming, but because now the pups will start to become more animated and begin to really notice the world around them. There will be numerous changes to their environment as they grow. It is a fun time for me. :+)

While I was changing their bedding, Gunny was eating her very nutritious lunch of Life's Abundance kibble, our Simply Poultry Mix and a half can of Life's Abundance Pork and Venison - there was not a kernel left. :+)

Then she was ready......

First, Gunny looked to see if any of them were awake. Not yet...

So, she very quietly hopped over them to settle into position then yelled 'LUNCH'!

Sunday, March 11, 2018

On Saturday afternoon, I decided that Gunny and her litter should be in the Pup Room. The pups did super and comfortably settled in. Gunny was the most affected and kept checking to see if any of her babies were still in the office. Then she became 'Super Mom' and would not let any of the other doodles go near the pup room. This is totally normal for a mom feeling she needs to 'protect' her pups. We just made sure to be patient and very conscious of her feelings. I knew in about 24 hours all would be well.

This morning, Gunny wanted to come in to be with the other girls and she was in a totally different mindset. I will always keep the gate to the actual pen where the pups are closed because I take no chances. However, I can now keep the gate open to the pup room from the kitchen so all the doodles can go outdoors to potty and play. Glad that remedied quickly! :+)

They no longer need the 'guard rails' as they have grown so much. Gunny is very careful jumping in and settling to nurse. I clipped their nails for the first time. Collars have also been changed. It is truly amazing how quickly pups grow.